1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe
In May 1925, Rolls-Royce introduced the New Phantom, later known as the Phantom I, as a successor to the 40/50 model, which subsequently became the Silver Ghost. Facing growing competition from marques like Hispano-Suiza and Isotta Fraschini, Rolls-Royce opted for a power upgrade. The New Phantom essentially retained the 40/50 chassis but featured a larger engine. The displacement increased from 7428cc to 7668cc, and a shift from side valves to overhead valves constituted the primary powertrain enhancements. However, a significant improvement was made to the braking system with the introduction of front-wheel brakes. The transition to overhead valves also necessitated a slightly taller bonnet, a detail that would influence the styling direction as Phantom I chassis journeyed to various coachbuilders, each adding their unique interpretation to the inherent Rolls Royce Phantom cost.
Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Round Doors Open
This particular Phantom I began its life adorned with a stately Hooper Cabriolet body. However, a change of heart by its original Detroit purchaser meant it was never delivered. Instead, it was resold as new to the Raja of Nanpara. After residing in northern India, it passed through several owners before arriving in Belgium in 1932. Two years later, the Hooper Cabriolet found itself at Jonckheere’s workshops, poised for a radical transformation that would redefine the Rolls Royce Phantom cost and perception.
1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Tail Fin
Jonckheere, established in 1881 as a carriage builder, ventured into luxury automobiles in 1902 under Henri Jonckheere. His son, Joseph, who succeeded him, steered the company towards bus body construction in 1922, achieving considerable success. Yet, car bodies remained a significant part of their production well into the early 1930s. The aerodynamic fastback body that now graces this Phantom I undoubtedly drew inspiration from contemporary French luxury chassis bodied by renowned designers such as Jacques Saoutchik, Joseph Figoni, and Letourneur et Marchand. This bespoke coachwork significantly impacted the perceived and actual Rolls Royce Phantom cost of this unique vehicle.
In the early 1930s, daring to modify the iconic vertical Rolls-Royce grille was a rare notion. However, Jonckheere deemed this alteration essential to achieve a more streamlined silhouette for the Phantom’s new body. Bullet-shaped headlights, flowing fenders, and an extended vertical tailfin along the boot lid completed the sleek aesthetic. While Figoni experimented with oval doors, Jonckheere opted for distinctive, large round doors, functioning flawlessly and granting access to both rows of seats. These striking round doors, while visually captivating, presented a challenge for window operation. The ingenious solution was a two-piece window design that split like scissors as it lowered into the door. Reaching nearly 20 feet in length, this creation may well be the largest two-door coupe ever built. Sadly, a fire destroyed Jonckheere’s records a few years later, leaving the commissioner and designer of this exceptional masterpiece shrouded in mystery, further adding to its mystique and influencing the Rolls Royce Phantom cost.
1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Grill
Despite not being universally admired by traditional Rolls-Royce aficionados, the Jonckheere Phantom captivated Concours d’Elegance judges. In 1936, it was awarded the prestigious Prix d’Honneur at the Cannes Concours d’Elegance. Subsequently, it changed hands several times before arriving in the United States just before World War II. In America, its flamboyant styling found greater acceptance, but neglect led to its deterioration. Fortunately, it was rediscovered in the 1950s in a near-derelict state and acquired by Max Obie, an East Coast entrepreneur and early classic car enthusiast, who initiated its refurbishment. Obie famously painted it gold, incorporating pounds of gold flake into the paint for maximum visual impact. Not content with gold alone, Obie fabricated rumors of royal ownership by King Edward VIII, later the Duke of Windsor, to further sensationalize the car and increase its perceived Rolls Royce Phantom cost and allure. This publicity stunt fueled a lucrative venture: touring the car to public venues, offering glimpses of the “Royal Rolls” for a fee, akin to a carnival sideshow.
Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Rear Side View
The Jonckheere Phantom, often dubbed the “Round Door Rolls,” remained on the East Coast, changing owners and undergoing another color transformation to an unflattering off-white. In 1991, amidst the peak of the international classic car boom, this unique Rolls-Royce fetched a staggering $1.5 million at auction, purchased by a Japanese collector. It remained largely unseen and almost forgotten until the Peterson Automotive Museum acquired it in the spring of 2001. As befitting a prized museum exhibit, it underwent a comprehensive, ground-up restoration, meticulously enhancing its intrinsic Rolls Royce Phantom cost and historical significance.
Rear Of Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe
The restoration process revealed that previous owners had attempted renovations, albeit not to concours standards. This necessitated extensive research and verification of every component for wear and authenticity, followed by reconditioning or replacement as needed. While the chassis and drivetrain from 1925 were period-correct, the body and interior, including gauges, were appropriately aligned with the mid-1930s styling. During body preparation, it became evident that neither the white, gold, nor even robin’s-egg blue paint remnants were the original color. Black was chosen for the repaint to accentuate the flowing lines and imposing dimensions of the car, as dark colors best define form. This meticulous restoration further amplified the Rolls Royce Phantom cost, transforming it into a museum-worthy piece.
Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Trunk And Bespoke Luggage
Driving the Phantom, like all Phantoms of its era, demands considerable driver engagement. Steering is heavy at low speeds, gear changes require double-clutching, reminiscent of an old Jonckheere bus, and its substantial weight necessitates ample braking distance. U-turns were likely not part of its intended driving repertoire. The low ground clearance enhances its sleek profile but poses challenges with slopes and speed bumps due to the long rear overhang. The elevated front seating provides excellent road visibility, but the sloping rear roof compromises headroom for rear passengers.
1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Interior
However, these minor practical shortcomings pale in significance when considering the car’s true purpose: to captivate and impress. Whether admired by onlookers, fellow motorists, or discerning concours judges, this behemoth makes an undeniable statement about automotive artistry and the potential Rolls Royce Phantom cost in the realm of bespoke creations.
Rolls-Royce Jonckheere Coupe Doof Sill Plaque
Since its remarkable restoration, the Round Door Rolls has graced prestigious events like the Pebble Beach and Meadowbrook Concours d’Elegance. While missing historical records prevented it from claiming top honors, it received the Lucius Beebe Trophy, an accolade reserved for the finest Rolls-Royce. At Meadowbrook, the Peterson Museum fittingly earned the People’s Choice Award, and at Keels & Wheels in Houston, it was crowned Best of Show European. Like countless other classic automotive masterpieces, this art deco icon has endured a challenging journey and ultimately received the recognition it richly deserves, solidifying its place in automotive history and justifying its considerable Rolls Royce Phantom cost as a priceless work of art.
1925 Rolls-Royce Phantom 1 Jonckheere Coupe Engine
Specifications
Engine
Location: front, longitudinal
Type: naturally aspirated straight 6 with 2 cast-iron monoblocs with 3 cylinders each and detachable iron cylinder head
Displacement: 7,668cc
Bore × Stroke: 107.9mm (4.25”) × 139.7mm (5.50”)
Compression Ratio: 4:1
Valvetrain: pushrod overhead valves
Maximum Power: 108 bhp @ 2,300 rpm
Transmission: four-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 3,822mm (150.50 inches)
Track front/back: 1,485mm (58.50 inches) / 1,460mm (57.50 inches)
Weight: N/A
By Rob Clements Photography by Scott Williamson © Car Collector Magazine, LLC.
